back on her wedding day

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00:00:00Three years ago, Rachel saved Grandma King's life.

00:00:02In return, she became the wife of Ethan King, heir to the King family empire.

00:00:07In public,

00:00:07I'm incredibly lucky to have met Rachel and to call her my wife.

00:00:11In private,

00:00:12Mr. King, you've got full control of the board now.

00:00:15Being Mrs. King is no walk in the park.

00:00:17Over the next three years, King Group's market value doubled.

00:00:20Ethan himself grew from a man cornered by his own family

00:00:23into someone who no longer needed anyone's permission.

00:00:26In three months, the agreement expires.

00:00:30I'll honor every promise.

00:00:31Yes, theirs was a contract marriage, a transaction.

00:00:36Each got what they needed.

00:00:38Rachel, on the other hand, kept her little secret buried so deep

00:00:41that even she had almost convinced herself it wasn't there.

00:00:44Once the three years were up, they'd go their separate ways.

00:00:47Now, only three months remained.

00:00:49The King Group charity gala was in full swing.

00:00:52Rachel was back on duty.

00:00:54High society is exhausting.

00:00:56Be poised.

00:00:57Be graceful.

00:00:58Don't crack.

00:00:59Mr. King, Mrs. King.

00:01:01The two of you are a stunning couple, truly made for each other.

00:01:05Mr. Smith, you're too kind.

00:01:07Mr. and Mrs. Smith are the ones we admire.

00:01:09Ten years of marriage and still so in love.

00:01:12Ten years of marriage and an illegitimate child who was already eight,

00:01:15but it was all surface.

00:01:17Everyone here spoke the same language of pleasantries and polite fictions.

00:01:22Why do they love hearing lies so much?

00:01:24Just play your part as Mrs. King.

00:01:26I'll say one thing.

00:01:27I admire the commitment.

00:01:29You're quite the romantic.

00:01:31Their whispered exchange looked to every outsider like another piece of evidence

00:01:35that they were deeply in love.

00:01:37After all, three years ago, Rachel had saved Grandma King's life,

00:01:41and Ethan had married her in return.

00:01:43The story had broken the internet.

00:01:45Three years on, King Group's valuation had doubled.

00:01:49Ethan's devoted husband persona was rock solid.

00:01:52Rachel figured she'd gotten a fair deal.

00:01:54What she needed was a piece of land,

00:01:56the ancestral burial ground back in her hometown,

00:01:59where generations of the White family were laid to rest,

00:02:02along with the ancestors of half the families in the surrounding villages.

00:02:06King Group had earmarked that land for a luxury resort development.

00:02:10The burial ground was first on the chopping block.

00:02:13Villagers had knelt outside King Group's headquarters begging.

00:02:16It hadn't mattered in the eyes of capital

00:02:18what were some dirt-poor farmer's graves.

00:02:22She'd gone to Grandma King,

00:02:23trading the favor of saving the old woman's life.

00:02:26The old lady was soft-hearted,

00:02:27but no longer had a say in the business.

00:02:30It was Ethan who had come to her.

00:02:31Contract marriage.

00:02:32Three years.

00:02:33The land is yours.

00:02:35Why me?

00:02:36My family wants me to marry into another dynasty.

00:02:38I'm not interested.

00:02:38You saved my grandmother.

00:02:40They can't object.

00:02:41As for three years,

00:02:42she should have made something of herself by then.

00:02:44Rachel understood.

00:02:45He was waiting for someone.

00:02:47Someone he loved.

00:02:48She'd known that all along, actually.

00:02:50The first time she'd caught his eye in the King family corridor,

00:02:53her heart had skipped a beat.

00:02:55She'd never said a word about it.

00:02:57Never let on.

00:02:58And she, no money, no connections,

00:03:01her family's fate in his hands,

00:03:02was the perfect contract wife.

00:03:04She wouldn't cling.

00:03:06She wouldn't fall for him.

00:03:07When the three years were up,

00:03:09she'd walk away quietly.

00:03:10She signed.

00:03:11Three years.

00:03:12She knew it was a deal with the devil.

00:03:14But she couldn't help wanting just one more taste.

00:03:17A transaction.

00:03:19Each got what they needed.

00:03:21Three months left.

00:03:22Halfway through the gala,

00:03:23Rachel's face ached from smiling.

00:03:25Then she saw Vera.

00:03:28Ethan, it's been too long.

00:03:30Vera, you're back.

00:03:33Got in yesterday.

00:03:35Heard tonight was the event to be at,

00:03:37so here I am.

00:03:37This must be Miss White.

00:03:39Ethan's mentioned you.

00:03:41Miss Green, welcome back.

00:03:43I've got friends over there.

00:03:44Come say hi.

00:03:46Go find somewhere to rest.

00:03:47Sure.

00:03:47Vera materialized at her side.

00:03:49Miss White,

00:03:51someone of your background?

00:03:54Landing the King family?

00:03:55Your ancestors' graves must be glowing with good fortune.

00:03:59Pretty face.

00:04:01Filthy mouth.

00:04:02Miss Green,

00:04:03first thing you do after coming home

00:04:05is visit my family's graves?

00:04:06How thoughtful.

00:04:08You're just a stand-in

00:04:09and a sharp-tongued one at that.

00:04:12You'll be out on the street soon enough.

00:04:14Eventually.

00:04:15We'll see when eventually comes.

00:04:17Do you think Ethan's devotion

00:04:19gives you the nerve to provoke me?

00:04:21Miss Green,

00:04:22the thought never crossed my mind.

00:04:23Ethan has never been my source of confidence.

00:04:26I am law-abiding

00:04:27with a clean conscience.

00:04:29Furious, she grabbed a wine glass.

00:04:31A full glass of red wine

00:04:33splashed directly into Rachel's face

00:04:35in front of everyone.

00:04:36Gasps rippled through the crowd.

00:04:39Oh my god, did you see that?

00:04:40The current and the X going at it.

00:04:43Which side do you think Mr. King takes?

00:04:45The current wife, obviously.

00:04:47Everyone knows how devoted he is.

00:04:49Idiot.

00:04:50Rachel, what are you so smug about?

00:04:53In my eyes, you're nothing.

00:04:55You wouldn't dare.

00:04:56A hand shot out from the side

00:04:57and clamped down on her wrist like a vice.

00:04:59Ethan materialized from nowhere,

00:05:01his expression dark.

00:05:02He took in Rachel's wine-soaked state, frowning.

00:05:05What's going on?

00:05:06I was in a bad mood

00:05:07and was just having a little fun.

00:05:09But your darling wife,

00:05:10she's got quite the temper.

00:05:12Insisted on throwing one back.

00:05:14Rachel had to admire Vera's honesty in a way.

00:05:16She clearly felt untouchable.

00:05:18But at a King Group gala,

00:05:20publicly humiliating Mrs. King,

00:05:22that came with consequences.

00:05:23Rachel said nothing,

00:05:24just looked at Ethan.

00:05:25Her eyes told him everything.

00:05:27You need to handle this.

00:05:28Ethan met her gaze,

00:05:29his expression complicated.

00:05:32Apologize to Vera.

00:05:33Rachel's chest constricted,

00:05:35as if she'd taken a fist to the sternum.

00:05:36It wasn't the disappointment

00:05:37of a friend being let down.

00:05:39It was the pain of something

00:05:40she'd carried in secret for three years.

00:05:42Something she hadn't even allowed herself to name.

00:05:45Being casually crushed under his heel.

00:05:47Three years together.

00:05:48They'd gotten along well.

00:05:50She'd thought of them as friends.

00:05:51She'd thought she understood him.

00:05:53He would never let anyone disrespect the King name,

00:05:55but she was the one who'd been publicly splashed,

00:05:58publicly humiliated.

00:05:59The King family had been slapped just as hard.

00:06:02The one who should apologize was Vera.

00:06:05Instead, he'd chosen Vera's side.

00:06:06Of course he loves her.

00:06:08And whatever Rachel felt,

00:06:09the thing she'd never let see daylight

00:06:11weighed nothing on his scale.

00:06:14Ethan, are you sure?

00:06:16Rachel, don't make me say it twice.

00:06:20Don't forget about the land.

00:06:22Those last three words landed

00:06:23like a bucket of ice water over her head.

00:06:25Rachel lowered her lashes.

00:06:27All the anger, the humiliation, the injustice.

00:06:29She forced it all back down.

00:06:32Fine, I've lost face.

00:06:33But the King family lost face too.

00:06:35But Ethan was willing to let it go.

00:06:37Miss Green, I apologize.

00:06:39I let my emotions get the bastard of me,

00:06:41please the bigger person, and overlook it.

00:06:43She inclined her head slightly,

00:06:44her posture humble.

00:06:46Vera's smugness was practically radioactive.

00:06:48She stepped close and whispered for Rachel's ears only.

00:06:51You thought I was stupid just now?

00:06:54Take a look around.

00:06:55Who's the stupid one?

00:06:57Rachel had indeed underestimated Vera's hold on Ethan.

00:07:00She accepted the loss.

00:07:01Miss Green, you're not what I imagined.

00:07:04And I didn't realize Mr. King had such specific taste.

00:07:10The disdain in Rachel's eyes made Ethan frown.

00:07:14Don't walk around covered of that mess.

00:07:16You're embarrassing the King family.

00:07:17With that, he let Vera take his arm and turned away.

00:07:20He never looked back at Rachel once.

00:07:22The whispers erupted behind them.

00:07:23So much for Mrs. King.

00:07:25The real one shows up and the stand-on is exposed.

00:07:28Trash is trash.

00:07:29Put it in a palace and it's still trash.

00:07:31Rachel kept her spine straight and walked toward the lounge through the gauntlet of stairs.

00:07:36Just a few more months, then I'll have nothing to do with this family.

00:07:42For that piece of land, for the villagers who shouldn't have to beg on their knees, she could endure.

00:07:47She'd barely finished coaching herself when the door swung open.

00:07:50Vera leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed, smiling with malicious glee.

00:08:02Vera stepped inside, closed the door behind her, and stood directly in front of Rachel.

00:08:06She reached out, lifted a strand of Rachel's hair, then let it drop with visible distaste.

00:08:11Every time I see the news, your little lovebird act, his devoted husband routine, it makes me sick.

00:08:18It makes me unhappy.

00:08:20And when I'm unhappy, someone has to suffer.

00:08:26You're the perfect punching bag.

00:08:28Rachel studied Vera's contorted expression.

00:08:31She thought about the past three years.

00:08:33She'd played her part to perfection.

00:08:35The rescue, the marriage, the media frenzy.

00:08:37Every anniversary, birthday, holiday, she'd followed King Group PR's carefully scripted playbook,

00:08:43playing the loving wife on social media, candlelit dinner photos, gift exchange videos, airport kisses,

00:08:50three years of building Ethan's devoted husband brand.

00:08:52King Group's stock had soared, valuation doubled.

00:08:57They'd even pre-planned the divorce narrative.

00:08:59Rachel would cite infertility, claim she felt unworthy of the King family, and insist on the split.

00:09:05Ethan would perform a few scenes of heartbroken reluctance and painful release,

00:09:09riding the sympathy wave to stabilize the stock.

00:09:12A flawless business plan.

00:09:13Vera, seeing Rachel's silence, grew bolder.

00:09:16Rachel, you're a stand-in.

00:09:18Don't covet what doesn't belong to you.

00:09:21Rachel looked at the beautiful face twisted by jealousy and triumph and thought about the three months still ahead.

00:09:27Her response was calm.

00:09:28Miss Green, you're right.

00:09:30I am a stand-in.

00:09:31But even a stand-in has rules.

00:09:33The show isn't over until the curtain falls.

00:09:36Right now, I'm still the one wearing the ring.

00:09:38When you slap my face, you're slapping Ethan's too.

00:09:42She took a step forward.

00:09:44Vera retreated involuntarily.

00:09:46So let's keep the peace for now.

00:09:47No need to make things harder for Ethan.

00:09:52You?

00:09:53Make things hard for Ethan?

00:09:56Clearly, you still don't understand your position.

00:09:59Let me make it clearer.

00:10:00Vera's hand flew.

00:10:02The slap was sharp and ringing.

00:10:03Rachel's cheek burned instantly.

00:10:05Her ear rang, and the shock of it left her stunned.

00:10:08She'd been raised by parents who adored her.

00:10:09No one had ever struck her across the face.

00:10:12Rage flooded through her, drowning out reason.

00:10:15She raised her hand to hit back.

00:10:17The door burst open, Ethan's voice sharp.

00:10:20Rachel, that's enough.

00:10:21Before her hand could land, Ethan had seized her wrist in an iron grip.

00:10:25Then he shoved her, hard.

00:10:27Rachel's hip cracked against the cabinet.

00:10:29The pain was blinding.

00:10:30She swallowed the tears, forcing the words through gritted teeth.

00:10:34Ethan, are you blind?

00:10:36She hit me first!

00:10:38Ethan looked at the handprint blooming on Rachel's cheek, his brow furrowing with impatience.

00:10:43$10,000 per slap.

00:10:45Is that enough to keep you quiet?

00:10:47$10,000 per slap?

00:10:48Rachel stared at him, at the man she'd played wife to for three years.

00:10:52Over those three years, people had sneered at her background, tried to humiliate her.

00:10:56Every single time, Ethan had stepped in front of her.

00:10:59What's money worth if you have no character?

00:11:02My wife is not someone you get to mess with.

00:11:04He'd protected her.

00:11:05For three years, he hadn't let her suffer a single slight.

00:11:08But today, he'd wronged her again and again and again.

00:11:11You told me that as Mrs. King, no one would bully me.

00:11:15Is this what your promise looks like?

00:11:18Vera sneered.

00:11:19You're just my stand-in.

00:11:20The real thing is back.

00:11:24You actually thought Ethan would keep protecting you?

00:11:30Delusional.

00:11:31If I were you, I'd keep my head down and my mouth shut in front of me.

00:11:35Ethan didn't contradict her.

00:11:36Instead, he raised the offer.

00:11:38Not enough?

00:11:39A million.

00:11:39I don't want your money.

00:11:41Rachel, take the win.

00:11:42A million will last you years.

00:11:44Too bad.

00:11:45I'm not hurting for cash.

00:11:47The words barely left her mouth before Rachel's hand swung, cracking Vera across the face with

00:11:52everything she had.

00:11:53The white family might be from the country, but they ran a decent livestock business.

00:11:57They weren't rich by king standards, but Rachel wasn't broke.

00:12:00Ethan snapped out of it and rushed to Vera.

00:12:03Vera, are you okay?

00:12:04Vera pushed him away, tears spilling.

00:12:06You just watched her hit me?

00:12:11Do you even love me anymore?

00:12:13Of course I do, Vera.

00:12:15You're the only one I love.

00:12:17Then hit her back.

00:12:19Ethan hesitated.

00:12:21Vera, she saved my grandmother.

00:12:23I can't just...

00:12:24Then we're done.

00:12:26Don't come find me again.

00:12:28Vera turned to leave.

00:12:29Ethan caught her arm.

00:12:31You know you're the only one in my heart.

00:12:35Do you have any idea what I've been through?

00:12:38Do you have any idea?

00:12:39Your grandmother forced me to leave.

00:12:42Do you know how hard it was?

00:12:44Alone abroad?

00:12:44And now that I'm back, your wife humiliates me in public.

00:12:49Ethan, you promised you'd never let me suffer again.

00:12:53Something shifted in Ethan's eyes.

00:12:55Struggle, then resolve.

00:12:56Fine.

00:12:57I'll make this right for you.

00:12:58He turned and walked toward Rachel, one deliberate step at a time.

00:13:02Rachel's back hit the cold mirror.

00:13:04Nowhere left to go.

00:13:05Ethan, you'd repay kindness with cruelty?

00:13:08No fear of karma?

00:13:10Ethan's fist clenched, then released.

00:13:12I promised Vera no one gets to hurt her.

00:13:16As for the debt I owe you, name your price.

00:13:20His palm connected before Rachel could brace.

00:13:23Her head snapped to the side.

00:13:24Blood welled at the corner of her mouth.

00:13:26Combined with the cut on her forehead, she looked ghastly.

00:13:30Ethan, you respect me, I'll respect you.

00:13:33Let me tell you something.

00:13:35I'm not easy to push around, either.

00:13:37She grabbed her makeup bag and hurled it at him.

00:13:40Ethan dodged it effortlessly.

00:13:42Looking at Rachel's battered state, a flicker of something, was it regret, crossed his face.

00:13:46But what came out of his mouth was brutal.

00:13:49I know your family has some money.

00:13:53But think carefully.

00:13:56Can that little bit of wealthy survive king group coming after it?

00:14:00Yes, Vera hit you first.

00:14:01So what?

00:14:02She's the woman I love.

00:14:03I'll cover anything she does.

00:14:05So learn your lesson.

00:14:07From now on, when you see Vera, show some respect.

00:14:11Satisfied now?

00:14:13You used to say you'd make anyone who hurt me pay a hundred times over.

00:14:17One slap and you're done?

00:14:19Come bear to do more?

00:14:20She stared at him.

00:14:21Is this what your love amounts to?

00:14:25Vera, why do you have to trample on my sincerity like this?

00:14:28What do you will?

00:14:28We explain.

00:14:29What do you want me to do?

00:14:30Vera looked back, triumph glinting in her wet eyes.

00:14:34I don't need a hundred.

00:14:35Ten times.

00:14:37That's all.

00:14:38Ethan hesitated.

00:14:39Vera, you know she did my family a favor.

00:14:42Clearly, you can't bear it.

00:14:44I won't force you.

00:14:45We'll go our separate ways.

00:14:47She turned.

00:14:48Ethan caught her again.

00:14:49His voice was tender.

00:14:50Same temper as always.

00:14:52Can't stand even a little injustice.

00:14:54You're the most important person in the world to me, Vera.

00:14:57He folded her into his arms.

00:14:59I'll do it.

00:15:00Just don't ever talk about leaving me again.

00:15:03Show me then.

00:15:04Vera, finally satisfied, pushed him away.

00:15:07Prove it.

00:15:08Ethan turned and advanced on Rachel once more.

00:15:10Rachel watched him approach in disbelief.

00:15:12Ethan, we're visiting your grandmother in two days.

00:15:15Ethan didn't break stride.

00:15:17Rachel, Vera is my bottom line.

00:15:19You brought this on yourself.

00:15:21Rachel fought back with everything she had, but she was no match for a man who lived at

00:15:24the gym.

00:15:25One slap, Rachel couldn't feel her face anymore.

00:15:28She just looked at Ethan's face, familiar and foreign at the same time, and remembered

00:15:32every time he'd said,

00:15:33My wife is not someone you get to mess with.

00:15:36Those words, she realized, were more degrading than the slaps.

00:15:39She'd liked him.

00:15:40Quietly, secretly, the way you clutch a piece of candy you're terrified someone will take

00:15:44from you, and now he'd crush that candy with his own hands, along with every scrap of

00:15:49her dignity.

00:15:50Vera.

00:15:52Ten slaps.

00:15:53Done.

00:15:56You pass.

00:15:57Vera burst into delighted laughter and threw herself into his arms.

00:16:00The hardness in Ethan's expression dissolved instantly.

00:16:03As long as you're not upset.

00:16:06Ethan, doesn't she look like a stray dog that just got kicked?

00:16:10Vera looked at Rachel, her eyes brimming with provocation.

00:16:13If you say so.

00:16:14Ethan finally looked at Rachel again, his brow deeply furrowed.

00:16:19I'll have the driver take you home.

00:16:21A doctor will come to see you.

00:16:24As for grandmother, keep your mouth shut.

00:16:28Otherwise, you know what happens.

00:16:30Rachel slid down the mirror until she was sitting on the floor.

00:16:33Blood dripped from the corner of her mouth.

00:16:35Her cheeks were swollen beyond recognition.

00:16:38She watched Ethan carefully, tenderly escorting Vera out, as if cradling something precious.

00:16:42The door clicked shut.

00:16:43The world went silent.

00:16:45She looked at the woman in the mirror, battered, broken, lying there like a dead dog, and then

00:16:49everything went black.

00:16:50Her last thought before losing consciousness.

00:16:53So in Ethan's eyes, I'm worth less than a dog.

00:16:55Rachel woke in her own bed.

00:16:58Her cheek throbbed.

00:16:59An ice pack and painkillers sat on the nightstand.

00:17:01By the window, Ethan stood with his back to her, smoking.

00:17:05He heard her stir, turned, and crushed the cigarette.

00:17:08You're up?

00:17:09Rachel didn't answer.

00:17:10Just looked at him.

00:17:11Through swollen eyelids, his face was doubled and blurred.

00:17:14She thought back to the first time she'd seen him three years ago.

00:17:18He'd looked exactly like this.

00:17:20Aloof.

00:17:20Untouchable.

00:17:21Remote.

00:17:22Her heart had skipped a beat that day.

00:17:24She'd thought it was destiny.

00:17:26Now she understood.

00:17:27It had been a cruel joke.

00:17:28Three years of peace between them.

00:17:30She'd even thought they were good friends, but she'd been wrong.

00:17:33That's all it was.

00:17:35Her thinking.

00:17:36Three years.

00:17:37Nothing had changed.

00:17:39Rachel, we got a long fine for three years.

00:17:42I didn't want things to go this far.

00:17:43But Vera is my bottom line.

00:17:45Your bottom line means ignoring right and wrong entirely?

00:17:48Name a price.

00:17:49Consider it compensation.

00:17:51I want the land.

00:17:53Now.

00:17:53No.

00:17:54Not before the divorce.

00:17:56Rachel knew why.

00:17:57That land was the last leash he had on her.

00:17:59Your grandmother's birthday is in a month.

00:18:03After the birthday Anquing, we divorce per the agreement.

00:18:06The land will be yours as promised.

00:18:08Rachel laughed bitterly.

00:18:09Ethan, you're such a hypocrite.

00:18:12You talk about feel owed while hurting the woman who saved your grandmother's life.

00:18:16Ethan's expression darkened, but he didn't argue.

00:18:21Fine.

00:18:22You said 10,000 per slap.

00:18:2410 slaps?

00:18:2510 million.

00:18:27Now.

00:18:27Ethan paused, then pulled out his phone.

00:18:29Seconds later, Rachel's phone buzzed repeatedly.

00:18:33Transfer notifications, one after another.

00:18:3620 million.

00:18:37Double what she'd asked for.

00:18:38The extra is for medical expenses and emotional distress.

00:18:42Additionally, you need to release a statement.

00:18:45Clarify that you provoked Vera first at the gala.

00:18:48Apologize publicly.

00:18:49Rachel sat up sharply, pulling at the wounds on her face.

00:18:52Ethan, do you know what'll happen to me after I post that?

00:18:56Everyone will crucify me.

00:18:59They'll call me ungrateful, heartless.

00:19:02I know.

00:19:03But it's the fastest way to protect Vera's reputation.

00:19:08She's a green.

00:19:09She just came back to take over the family business.

00:19:12She can't have any stains.

00:19:13And me?

00:19:14My reputation?

00:19:15When I did nothing wrong.

00:19:17After grandmother's birthday, you'll have nothing to do with the King family or this circle.

00:19:22You take the money, go back to your small town, start over.

00:19:26Reputation doesn't matter much where you're going.

00:19:29Ten million is enough to live comfortably for the rest of your life.

00:19:33You're not losing on this deal.

00:19:34Rich people love to buy a poor person's spine.

00:19:37In Ethan's mind, his money was omnipotent when it came to Rachel.

00:19:40It could smooth every wound, purchase every humiliation, silence every mouth.

00:19:46And if I refuse?

00:19:49That ancestral burial ground you care so much about?

00:19:53King group will break ground immediately.

00:19:56Bulldozers within the week.

00:19:58Rachel's hand crushed the bedsheet.

00:20:00She knew he wasn't bluffing.

00:20:01The villagers tear-streaked faces as they'd knelt and begged.

00:20:05Her parents' careful, hopeful voices on the phone.

00:20:08Her little brother's worshipful eyes when he talked about how his amazing sister was going to save the family graves.

00:20:14All of it pressed down on her.

00:20:16Dignity, pride, worthless in the face of reality.

00:20:19She surrendered.

00:20:20I'll post the statement.

00:20:22Now get out.

00:20:23Ethan's frown deepened.

00:20:24He opened his mouth, thought better of it, and left.

00:20:27Rachel had no choice but to post the statement.

00:20:30Within ten minutes, the comments exploded.

00:20:32Figures.

00:20:33White trash claws her way up and can't handle it.

00:20:36No class.

00:20:38Should have just paid her off for saving the old lady and left it at that.

00:20:41This is what happens when you ignore social class.

00:20:45Poor Vera.

00:20:46Comes home and gets targeted by this manipulative grifter.

00:20:49Get out of high society.

00:20:50You don't belong.

00:20:52Rachel locked her phone and buried her face in the pillow.

00:20:55Her cheek still throbbed, but the deeper pain was elsewhere.

00:20:58Not because of Ethan.

00:20:59Not entirely because of her own helplessness.

00:21:02It was because she'd spent three years carefully, quietly loving someone.

00:21:07Only to have that person shove her into the mud with his own hands.

00:21:10And she didn't even have the right to complain.

00:21:13When you loved someone in secret, you forfeited the right to say it hurt.

00:21:16She was the one who'd been attacked, yet she was the one apologizing.

00:21:20She wanted to go home.

00:21:22She wanted her mom and dad.

00:21:24But for that piece of land, she had no choice.

00:21:28Ten slaps and a ruined reputation.

00:21:30At least I made $20 million.

00:21:32Next door, in the study, Ethan sat behind his wide desk.

00:21:37Merger documents spread before him.

00:21:38He couldn't read a single word.

00:21:40His phone screen displayed Rachel's just posted statement.

00:21:44Comments multiplied in real time.

00:21:46Vicious, obscene, relentless.

00:21:48He frowned, instinctively reaching for his phone to call PR and suppress the narrative.

00:21:53His thumb hovered over the dial button, then stopped.

00:21:56He couldn't.

00:21:57This was what he'd promised Vera.

00:21:59Let Rachel learn her lesson.

00:22:01Protect Vera's image.

00:22:03He yanked his tie loose and lit another cigarette.

00:22:06Through the smoke, he kept seeing Rachel's eyes.

00:22:09That desperate, shattered look she'd given him.

00:22:11And the broken sound of her voice.

00:22:14Something in his chest.

00:22:16Small and sharp, like a needle.

00:22:18Three years under the same roof.

00:22:20When he was sick, she'd made kanji.

00:22:23When he couldn't sleep, she'd dragged him out for a run.

00:22:26When he missed Vera, she'd told him to hold on.

00:22:29He knew he'd gone too far.

00:22:30Not just far.

00:22:32He'd hit her.

00:22:33More than once.

00:22:35Ten times.

00:22:36Across the face of a woman who'd done nothing wrong, who'd spent three years meticulously

00:22:40maintaining his public image.

00:22:42He'd promised her that during the contract, she'd have his protection and his respect.

00:22:46But Vera had waited three years for him.

00:22:49He'd sworn he'd never let her suffer again.

00:22:52And Rachel, it had been a transaction from day one.

00:22:55Services rendered.

00:22:56Payment made.

00:22:57Each got what they needed.

00:22:59He'd hit her, yes.

00:23:01But he'd compensated her.

00:23:02He'd been more than fair.

00:23:04He had no reason to feel guilty.

00:23:06That faint discomfort that was just three years of proximity talking.

00:23:11Surface level sentiment.

00:23:13Nothing more.

00:23:14He loved Vera.

00:23:15When he'd been powerless, he couldn't protect her.

00:23:18Now he had power.

00:23:19Naturally, he wouldn't let her suffer.

00:23:22Right.

00:23:23That was it.

00:23:24Two days later, Rachel applied heavy foundation and went with Ethan to the old family estate.

00:23:29She charmed Grandma King as thoroughly as ever.

00:23:32Had the old woman beaming.

00:23:34As usual, the grandmother asked them to stay the night.

00:23:37On previous overnight visits, Rachel would volunteer for the sofa.

00:23:40If I ever hit rock bottom, you'll throw me a rope based on this bond alone, right?

00:23:44Ethan never responded directly, but he'd found it easy, comfortable.

00:23:49He'd silently decided that if Rachel ever needed help, he wouldn't stand by.

00:23:53But this time, Rachel lay on the sofa without a word.

00:23:57She didn't speak to Ethan at all.

00:23:59He watched her turn back, words rising and dying in his throat.

00:24:02Since that day, they'd gone from friends to something like strangers.

00:24:06The strangeness unsettled him.

00:24:08The night passed in silence.

00:24:09The next morning, under Grandma King's watchful eye, Rachel took the passenger seat of Ethan's car.

00:24:15After they left the estate, Ethan took a call and pulled over in a quiet corner.

00:24:20Before he could speak, Rachel got out of the car, reading the room.

00:24:23My assistant will come pick you up.

00:24:26Thanks.

00:24:26If this weren't a gated villa community where rideshares didn't come, she'd never have accepted.

00:24:31She waited an hour.

00:24:33The assistant's phone went straight to voicemail.

00:24:35She considered walking back to the estate, but couldn't risk the consequences of showing up alone and raising questions.

00:24:41Not much longer.

00:24:42Hang in there.

00:24:43After walking an hour in heels, she finally cleared the sprawling estate.

00:24:47A car accelerated straight toward her.

00:24:49She tried to dodge, but human legs don't outrun engines.

00:24:52The last thing she saw before losing consciousness was Vera's gloating face behind the wheel.

00:24:58If I die, will Ethan renex on the land?

00:25:01Rachel woke in a hospital bed.

00:25:03Her head was bandaged.

00:25:04Every inch of her body screamed in pain.

00:25:07Raised voices filtered in from the hallway.

00:25:10Vera, this is attempted vehicular mansladers.

00:25:14If something happens to her, you'll go to prison!

00:25:18You'd protect me, wouldn't you?

00:25:20You said you'd always protect me!

00:25:23That's not the same thing.

00:25:25Ethan, you care about her, don't you?

00:25:28Three years you've developed feelings for her, haven't you?

00:25:31I haven't.

00:25:32But Rachel is innocent.

00:25:33You shouldn't have done this.

00:25:35Innocent?

00:25:37She's been squatting in the Mrs. King position for three years, stealing what was mine.

00:25:41How is she innocent?

00:25:42Ethan, if you care about her so much, fine.

00:25:45I'll go to prison.

00:25:47Vera, don't say that.

00:25:49You know I can't bear it.

00:25:51The arguing outside made Rachel's head pound.

00:25:53She needed to call the police.

00:25:55Ethan walked in, saw she was awake, faltered,

00:25:58then saw her reaching for the phone and moved fast, snatching it away.

00:26:02Rachel, I suggest we settle this privately.

00:26:06Vera didn't mean it.

00:26:07It was an impulse.

00:26:08Ethan, you want to bet there's no traffic camera footage?

00:26:11The cameras malfunctioned.

00:26:13Rachel wasn't surprised.

00:26:14Ethan was going to protect Vera.

00:26:16A broken camera was nothing.

00:26:18He had the power to erase any trail.

00:26:21Mr. King, do you realize what you're doing?

00:26:23You're covering up a crime.

00:26:25Ethan pulled a document from his briefcase.

00:26:27This is a settlement agreement.

00:26:29Sign it, drop this, and I'll compensate you.

00:26:32How much are you planning to pay for my life?

00:26:34Rachel, don't be dramatic.

00:26:35Without evidence, even if you refuse to sign, nothing will happen to Vera.

00:26:41Have you lost all sense of right and wrongs for Vera?

00:26:46Rachel, instead of getting angry, think about whether you have the leverage to fight this.

00:26:51If you push it, we have witnesses and statements.

00:26:54The doctor says you've got a concussion and some bruises.

00:26:57Vera was measured.

00:26:58She was testing how much I care about her.

00:27:01I know you could tell, Grandmother.

00:27:04But the day she finds out, I'll have the construction crew break ground on that land.

00:27:10Rachel, don't be stubborn.

00:27:11I know Vera went too far.

00:27:13But no matter what happens, I'll always be on her side.

00:27:17Ethan, you came to me.

00:27:19You asked me to be your contract wife.

00:27:22You promised that during our arrangement, you'd protect me.

00:27:27You said you wouldn't let me get hurt.

00:27:29But you hit me.

00:27:31Ten times.

00:27:32And then you let Vera run me down with a car.

00:27:34And now you want me to let her off?

00:27:35Your promises are a joke.

00:27:37I've already compensated you.

00:27:39What more do you want?

00:27:40Ethan disliked this aggressive version of Rachel.

00:27:43She was fine.

00:27:44He'd given her money.

00:27:46As for the marriage, you profited too.

00:27:49Rachel, I won't say it again.

00:27:51Sign it if you want.

00:27:52If you don't, bear the consequences.

00:27:55Vera was the person Ethan protected.

00:27:58He had the means and the will to clear every obstacle for her.

00:28:01Evidence included, Rachel had no choice.

00:28:04If she signed, at least she'd get money.

00:28:06If she didn't, she was a threat to be neutralized.

00:28:10She flipped through the pages, pain radiating through her body.

00:28:13The agreement required her to confess that she'd violated traffic rules, jumping in front of the car deliberately, while Vera

00:28:21was recast as a good Samaritan who'd rushed her to the hospital.

00:28:24Mr. King, gaslighting at its finest, turning black into white.

00:28:28Just a precaution.

00:28:30I don't want Vera to face any trouble.

00:28:32Rachel had no options.

00:28:33Even if she fought, the person who'd go down would be some proxy.

00:28:37Vera wouldn't lose a hair.

00:28:38For Vera, Ethan had no floor.

00:28:40She signed the humiliating document.

00:28:43Ethan took the file and turned to leave.

00:28:46Mr. King!

00:28:46He paused, didn't look back.

00:28:49After the birthday canquid, I expect you to keep your word.

00:28:52I may have nothing, but I have nothing left to lose.

00:28:56If there's any more trouble, I've got a life to spend.

00:28:59Relax.

00:28:59When Ethan King makes a promise, I keep it.

00:29:02The door closed.

00:29:03Rachel lay in the hospital bed, staring at the ceiling.

00:29:05Tears slipped out despite herself.

00:29:07She didn't want money.

00:29:09She wanted the people who'd hurt her to face consequences.

00:29:12But clearly, to those with power, she wasn't important enough for justice.

00:29:16After Ethan left, his assistant arrived quickly.

00:29:20Mrs. King, please don't take it too hard.

00:29:22Mr. King, he's actually a very loyal person.

00:29:25If it weren't for you and Miss Green, Mr. King would definitely be on your side.

00:29:30He does feel guilty.

00:29:32These supplements, he personally instructed me to source them.

00:29:35They're excellent for your recovery.

00:29:39Is that right?

00:29:40Loyal.

00:29:41Tell Mr. King thanks for his loyalty.

00:29:44Please rest assured.

00:29:45What Mr. King has promised, he'll deliver.

00:29:48The land, after the banquet, it'll be yours.

00:29:50In the meantime, please be patient.

00:29:54Patient?

00:29:55Patient through his coldness and injustice?

00:29:58Patient through his betrayal?

00:30:00Patient through his enabling of Vera's cruelty?

00:30:02Patient through his slaps and backroom slander?

00:30:05Rachel found it laughable.

00:30:07But she said nothing more.

00:30:09Soon enough, she'd have the land and they'd be strangers.

00:30:12The next day, Vera walked into the room alone.

00:30:15She waved off the nurse.

00:30:17Rachel, do you think Ethan still cares about you?

00:30:20Rachel didn't answer.

00:30:21She had no interest in engaging with this lunatic.

00:30:24Ethan and I grew up together.

00:30:27He's always put me first.

00:30:29If that old hag hadn't interfered, we'd have been together years ago.

00:30:33I thought she'd pick someone from a proper family for Ethan.

00:30:36Instead, she picked the likes of you.

00:30:38I hate her.

00:30:39I can't touch the old woman.

00:30:41But you?

00:30:42Easy.

00:30:43Rachel opened her eyes and looked at Vera's twisted face.

00:30:46Vera, aren't you worried Ethan's grandmother will find out?

00:30:49That she'll keep you and Ethan apart for good?

00:30:52That old hag won't live much longer.

00:30:54How many more years can she block me?

00:30:56Vera, that's Ethan's grandmother.

00:30:58If you disrespect her like that, aren't you afraid Ethan will despise you?

00:31:03Despise me?

00:31:04Ethan is my dog.

00:31:06Even without a leash, he comes running back.

00:31:09Rest up, Rachel.

00:31:10I've got a big gift coming for you.

00:31:12After Vera left, a chill of panic settled in Rachel's chest.

00:31:15She didn't know what Vera would do next.

00:31:17She called Ethan.

00:31:18He rejected every call.

00:31:20She thought about calling her parents, then stopped herself.

00:31:23She couldn't let them worry.

00:31:25Rachel was discharged.

00:31:26On edge.

00:31:27Vera made no further moves, which helped her relax slightly.

00:31:31Tomorrow was Grandma King's birthday banquet.

00:31:34Once it was over, she'd get what she wanted and she could put this pair of psychopaths behind her.

00:31:39On the day of the banquet, Ethan finally appeared.

00:31:42Mr. King, relax.

00:31:44I'll hold the fort till the end.

00:31:45No subvision required.

00:31:46She'd made peace with things during her recovery.

00:31:49You can't outmuscle someone with that kind of power.

00:31:52Better to enjoy each day than wallow.

00:31:54She hoped her familiar attitude might make Ethan remember their friendship.

00:31:59If Vera came after her again, maybe he'd step in just a little.

00:32:02Her words made something flicker in Ethan's expression.

00:32:05A ghost of a smile surfaced on his face.

00:32:08He handed her a box.

00:32:10Wear this.

00:32:11Rachel opened it.

00:32:13Inside, a sapphire necklace caught the light.

00:32:15She handed the box back.

00:32:17No need.

00:32:18After today, I won't be Mrs. King anymore.

00:32:21Keep it.

00:32:22Consider it a gift for your last day on duty.

00:32:26Rachel put on the necklace.

00:32:27No point provoking him.

00:32:29The banquet was held at a King Group hotel.

00:32:32The city's elite had turned out in force.

00:32:35Dozens of media outlets packed the venue.

00:32:37Rachel on Ethan's arm, smiling through her greetings with guests.

00:32:42She was flawless.

00:32:43No one would have guessed that this poised, elegant Mrs. King had been slapped bloody and

00:32:48run down by a car in recent weeks.

00:32:50Grandma King was delighted, holding Rachel's hand and not letting go.

00:32:53Rachel, you look beautiful today.

00:32:57Happy birthday, Grandma.

00:32:59Rachel presented her gift, taking her three months to stitch.

00:33:02She might never see this woman again.

00:33:04The one person in the King family who'd been genuinely kind to her.

00:33:09She wanted to give something real.

00:33:12Good child.

00:33:13This is my favorite gift.

00:33:15At the banquet, Rachel spotted Vera.

00:33:17White gown, looking like a pure white lily, standing beside her father.

00:33:21Their eyes met across the room.

00:33:24Vera offered a meaningful smile.

00:33:26Rachel looked away.

00:33:28After today, I'm staying far from this maniac.

00:33:30Rachel felt dizzy.

00:33:32I'm going to freshen up, she told Ethan.

00:33:35Ethan nodded.

00:33:36Come back quickly.

00:33:37Don't make Grandma worry.

00:33:39The second floor corridor was quiet, a stark contrast to the noise below.

00:33:43Rachel had barely entered the restroom when the room spined.

00:33:46She grabbed the sink to stay upright, feeling unwell, a woman's voice behind her.

00:33:52Rachel turned, Vera.

00:33:54Every alarm in her body fired.

00:33:57What are you doing, Vera?

00:33:58This is Ethan's grandmother's banquet.

00:34:00If something happens, something...

00:34:03Upset?

00:34:05Rachel, you think I'm scared?

00:34:07Even if I gave the old woman a heart attack right here, Ethan would still take my side.

00:34:13Vera stepped closer, backing Rachel against the sink.

00:34:16Rachel tried to push her away, but her limbs felt like water.

00:34:21She realized something was wrong.

00:34:24What did you do?

00:34:25Vera smiled, sweet and venomous.

00:34:27Nothing.

00:34:29Someone as wonderful as me wouldn't give the old woman a heart attack.

00:34:32Only a tramp like you would do that.

00:34:35She waved.

00:34:36A man appeared.

00:34:37Rachel tried to scream, his hand clamped over her mouth.

00:34:40Vera stepped close, patting Rachel's cheek.

00:34:43Rachel, after today, everyone will know you're a slut.

00:34:47Everyone will know you were fooling around and gave Grandma King a heart attack.

00:34:51She turned and walked away.

00:34:52Rachel, boneless and trembling, was dragged into a room.

00:34:55The man rubbed his hands together, reaching for her dress strap with a sleazy grin.

00:35:00Don't worry, pretty thing.

00:35:02I'll take good care of you.

00:35:05If you touch me, the King family will destroy you.

00:35:09The man laughed.

00:35:10A woman with HIV?

00:35:13Rachel's blood went cold.

00:35:15Vera had found someone with a disease to destroy her.

00:35:18Then she spotted the camera in the corner.

00:35:21Cold sweat broke out fresh.

00:35:23Vera wasn't just going to ruin her, she was going to broadcast it.

00:35:27If Grandma King saw the footage...

00:35:29Rachel couldn't finish the thought.

00:35:31No wonder Vera had said Rachel would be the one to give the old woman a heart attack.

00:35:36Did Ethan know what kind of viperous creature he loved?

00:35:39That she wanted his own grandmother dead?

00:35:42The man was pawing at her clothes.

00:35:45Nausea surged.

00:35:46No, I won't let this happen.

00:35:48She needed someone to save her.

00:35:50If Ethan noticed she'd been gone too long, would he come looking?

00:35:54She was still, technically, his wife.

00:35:57She fought.

00:35:58She screamed.

00:35:59No sound from the hallway.

00:36:00She had to save herself.

00:36:02She reached for the vase on the nightstand.

00:36:04If she couldn't kill him, she'd kill herself.

00:36:07She swung it at his head with every ounce of strength left.

00:36:10She knocked the man out.

00:36:12She ran to open the door and there was Ethan.

00:36:15Rachel?

00:36:16What happened?

00:36:17I was drugged.

00:36:19Vera, there's a man in there.

00:36:21He has HIV.

00:36:22Be careful.

00:36:24Ethan's face changed.

00:36:25He looked past her into the room.

00:36:27The man stumbled out, froze when he saw Ethan.

00:36:30Ethan's eyes were ice.

00:36:32Mr. King, this woman came on to me.

00:36:36I know what kind of person Rachel is.

00:36:38We'll settle this later.

00:36:42I drugged her.

00:36:43I won't let you take her to the hospital.

00:36:45Ethan was stuck.

00:36:48Vera, this is insane.

00:36:50She grabbed his arm.

00:36:51I'm not insane.

00:36:52I'm thinking about our future.

00:36:55Your grandmother has opposed us for years.

00:36:58Even if you divorce Rachel, she still won't approve of me.

00:37:01Even after the divorce, your grandmother won't change her mind about us.

00:37:06Ethan knew she was right.

00:37:08Rachel was different.

00:37:09Modest background, had saved his grandmother, and grandma liked her.

00:37:14Vera, this has nothing to do with Rachel.

00:37:16Ethan forced the words through clenched teeth.

00:37:21If you save her and she talks...

00:37:23Don't worry.

00:37:24I'll make sure Rachel keeps quiet.

00:37:26This won't touch you.

00:37:28Vera seized his arm.

00:37:32Ethan...

00:37:33If Rachel's reputation is destroyed, by contrast, I'll look that much better.

00:37:38You'll have grounds to convince your grandmother to let you marry me.

00:37:42Vera, I'll handle our situation.

00:37:44I'll wait however long it takes until grandmother agrees.

00:37:47I can't wait.

00:37:49Today, you choose.

00:37:51Her or me.

00:37:52You take her to the hospital.

00:37:54I marry someone else.

00:37:56You sacrifice her, and we're together for the rest of our lives.

00:37:59Ethan's heart clenched.

00:38:01He absolutely could not let Vera marry someone else.

00:38:04He looked down at Rachel.

00:38:05If Rachel's reputation was destroyed, Vera would look better by comparison.

00:38:10Then grandmother would have no grounds to refuse.

00:38:13Rachel, fighting to stay conscious, saw the hesitation in Ethan's eyes.

00:38:17A terrible premonition seized her.

00:38:20Ethan...

00:38:21Please take me to the hospital.

00:38:23I've never wronged your family.

00:38:25I helped double King Group's value.

00:38:28I saved your grandmother.

00:38:30Ethan, for our future, let's be ruthless just this once.

00:38:34We'll pay her more money than she could earn in a lifetime.

00:38:37It's just sleeping with someone.

00:38:38But that man is sick.

00:38:40So what?

00:38:41She can take PPP meds after.

00:38:43We've come this far.

00:38:44I'm not losing everything now.

00:38:46I don't want to marry someone else.

00:38:48I want to marry you.

00:38:49Ethan looked down at Rachel.

00:38:51He remembered her.

00:38:52For three years, she'd been his shield.

00:38:54Helping him manage his family.

00:38:56And now he was about to destroy her life.

00:39:00Ethan...

00:39:00If Grandma finds out, she won't survive it.

00:39:03You can't...

00:39:04Rachel, stop being dramatic.

00:39:06Grandma is perfectly healthy.

00:39:09She needs to see your true colors so she stops opposing me and Ethan.

00:39:13She looked at Ethan again.

00:39:15Ethan, it's your call.

00:39:17Whatever you decide, I'll respect it.

00:39:19Rachel knew Ethan would always choose Vera.

00:39:22For the thousand plus days we lived under the same roof.

00:39:27I'm begging you.

00:39:29Ethan, there's no time.

00:39:31If someone comes, it's all over.

00:39:32For a fraction of a second, something, regret, struggle flickered through his eyes.

00:39:37His jaw tightened.

00:39:38A war being fought and lost behind his face.

00:39:41But it lasted less than a second.

00:39:44The regret was replaced by resolve.

00:39:47Rachel, this one, I owe you.

00:39:49No!

00:39:50Ethan, I'm begging you.

00:39:52I saved your grandmother.

00:39:53I helped you so much, so much.

00:39:56The door closed.

00:39:57Rachel was dragged back inside.

00:39:59Listening to the muffled sounds of struggle and crying.

00:40:02His fists clenched so hard his knuckles went white.

00:40:05Let's go, Ethan.

00:40:06Soon, we'll be together.

00:40:08He let himself be led away, looking back with every step.

00:40:11Each step deepened the guilt.

00:40:13Back at the banquet, Ethan was distracted.

00:40:16He kept glancing at the second floor.

00:40:18Rachel's desperate eyes burned in his memory.

00:40:20Vera poured him a glass of wine.

00:40:23Ethan, I'm so glad you chose me.

00:40:26I didn't love the wrong man.

00:40:27Ethan didn't take the glass.

00:40:30Vera, do we really have to do it this way?

00:40:33Vera's eyes reddened.

00:40:34I don't want to either.

00:40:36But your grandmother adores her.

00:40:38Even after you divorce, she'll think I orchestrated it.

00:40:42She'll never let us be together.

00:40:44But the unease in his chest was growing.

00:40:47For three years, Rachel had been a contract wife in name only.

00:40:50But she'd been diligent.

00:40:52She'd remembered his stomach issues and prepared gentle lunches every day.

00:40:56She'd spun sweet lies for his grandmother, keeping the old woman happy.

00:41:00She'd played Mrs. King flawlessly in front of the media.

00:41:03Never caused trouble.

00:41:04They'd gotten along.

00:41:06Like old friends.

00:41:08Rachel had been happy, and her happiness had been infectious.

00:41:12Vera watched him closely.

00:41:13Ethan?

00:41:14Having second thoughts?

00:41:16If you want to stop it, you still can.

00:41:18Ethan's fist clenched and unclenched.

00:41:20Finally, he spoke.

00:41:22No.

00:41:23Vera smiled.

00:41:24Ethan, I knew you wouldn't let me down.

00:41:27Ethan nodded.

00:41:28But the agitation only grew.

00:41:29He remembered Rachel's words.

00:41:32I never wronged your family.

00:41:34I saved your grandmother.

00:41:36She had.

00:41:37Without Rachel, Grandma would have died three years ago.

00:41:40Without her, he'd have been forced into a strategic marriage with some well-connected

00:41:44woman and all the complications that came with it.

00:41:47Without her cooperation, the company's valuation wouldn't have doubled.

00:41:50And what had he done?

00:41:52To be with the woman he loved, he'd thrown his savior to the wolves?

00:41:56Ethan stood up abruptly.

00:41:57Where are you going?

00:41:59Vera, I can't do this.

00:42:01We'll find another way.

00:42:02Ethan, for me.

00:42:04For our future.

00:42:05Can't you adjust us this once?

00:42:08Ethan's step faltered.

00:42:09Vera pressed her advantage.

00:42:11Ethan, when we're married, we'll have a son and a daughter.

00:42:15We'll be so happy.

00:42:17Then the banquet hall's massive screen flickered to life.

00:42:20On screen, Rachel straddling a man.

00:42:22The man's face was obscured by her body.

00:42:25Rachel kissing him.

00:42:26Bold, eager, the room erupted.

00:42:29Oh my God.

00:42:31Is that Mrs. King?

00:42:32Cheating at Grandma King's birthday banquet?

00:42:35Disgraceful.

00:42:36He stared at Vera in disbelief, but there was no time for that now.

00:42:39He surged to his feet.

00:42:41Turn it off!

00:42:42Cut the feet!

00:42:43Staff scrambled.

00:42:44The screen went dark, but it was too late.

00:42:47Everyone had seen.

00:42:49Grandma King, who'd been chatting with old friends, stared at the screen.

00:42:52Her whole body trembled.

00:42:55Hugh.

00:42:56Hugh.

00:42:56She collapsed.

00:42:57He scooped her up and ran for the exit.

00:42:59This is a King family matter.

00:43:01Everyone understood.

00:43:02Keep your mouths shut.

00:43:05Guests murmured as they filed out.

00:43:07Soon the hall was empty, except for Vera.

00:43:10She surveyed the deserted ballroom,

00:43:12glanced up at the second floor and let a triumphant smile curl her lips.

00:43:17Rachel, you're finished.

00:43:19In the room, after Ethan had released her, the man had lunged.

00:43:23Rachel fought with everything she had,

00:43:26kicked him where it counted.

00:43:28He doubled over, momentarily releasing her.

00:43:31Rachel bolted for the door.

00:43:32Locked!

00:43:34Run all you want.

00:43:36Where are you going?

00:43:38Rachel backed toward the window.

00:43:40Third floor.

00:43:41She made her choice.

00:43:43Better to fall and die than be violated by this creature.

00:43:46As she braced to jump, the door was kicked open.

00:43:49A tall figure surged in and flattened the man with a single kick.

00:43:53Rachel stared.

00:43:54She knew that face.

00:43:55Henry.

00:43:56Ethan's business nemesis.

00:43:58CEO of Black Group.

00:44:00Mr. Black?

00:44:01She couldn't believe it.

00:44:03Are you hurt?

00:44:04I was drugged.

00:44:06Mr. Black, I need you to help me get evidence.

00:44:09Prove that I was drugged.

00:44:13Before she could finish, the drug surged again.

00:44:16Her body went hot, uncontrollable.

00:44:18She pressed herself against Henry.

00:44:20This is a strong dose.

00:44:22I know.

00:44:23Please, take me to the hospital.

00:44:26Get the evidence.

00:44:27Henry looked at the woman in his arms, barely conscious.

00:44:30Stop moving.

00:44:32Henry pinned her gently, pulled out his phone, and hit record.

00:44:36Tell me.

00:44:37Who drugged you?

00:44:38Rachel, jaw-clenched.

00:44:40Vera.

00:44:40Henry paused.

00:44:42He looked at the camera in the corner.

00:44:44Henry was quiet for a beat.

00:44:45Then he smiled.

00:44:46Rachel, don't blame me for using you then.

00:44:51Her body moved on instinct, pressing against him.

00:44:54She kissed his neck, his jaw, his mouth.

00:44:56Clumsy, feverish, desperate.

00:44:59Henry's body went rigid.

00:45:00Then he relaxed, letting her move.

00:45:03After a few minutes, he stopped her.

00:45:05Enough.

00:45:05The footage has already been sent.

00:45:08But Rachel was past hearing.

00:45:10She kept seeking relief against his body.

00:45:12Henry had no choice.

00:45:13He bound her wrists with his tie, draped his jacket over her, and carried her downstairs.

00:45:19The ground floor was closed.

00:45:21Ethan was rushing out with Grandma King in his arms.

00:45:23Henry didn't pause.

00:45:25The driver, Henry's cousin, Charles, told him.

00:45:28Whistle!

00:45:28Damn.

00:45:29You dragged me out here in a rush for this?

00:45:32Nice show.

00:45:35Can't seal the deal?

00:45:37You okay down there, buddy?

00:45:38Shut up.

00:45:39She's been drugged.

00:45:40Rachel was writhing against Henry, the drug erasing everything but the need for contact.

00:45:45Henry held her still, his breathing growing heavier.

00:45:48Rachel, stop.

00:45:50Henry, since when are you this useless?

00:45:53Can't handle one woman?

00:45:54Just go for it.

00:45:55Stop being so repressed.

00:45:56Shut up and drive.

00:45:58It's a heavy dose.

00:46:00God.

00:46:00Rachel's hand slipped inside his shirt.

00:46:02Henry couldn't suppress a sound.

00:46:05Faster!

00:46:06Charles accelerated, still talking.

00:46:09Seriously, you're not going to do anything?

00:46:11Shut up.

00:46:13Drive.

00:46:15And her clumsy, inexperienced touches were having an effect.

00:46:19Rachel.

00:46:20He said her name low.

00:46:22Rachel didn't hear.

00:46:24She only knew how to take.

00:46:25Rachel woke in a VIP hospital suite.

00:46:28The dizziness was gone.

00:46:30The fever had broken.

00:46:31She turned her head.

00:46:32Henry sat by the window with his laptop working.

00:46:36Awake?

00:46:36He noticed her stir, closed the computer, and walked over.

00:46:40The drug was potent.

00:46:41The doctor gave you a sedative.

00:46:42You've been out for over ten hours.

00:46:45Ethan came by.

00:46:46He brought a doctor to administer PP medication.

00:46:49I made sure that didn't happen.

00:46:51Don't you want to ask what happened while you were drugged?

00:46:54It's not like it matters anymore.

00:46:56The story making the rounds is that Mrs. King was caught cheating at Grandma King's birthday banquet.

00:47:03Ethan ordered the video suppressed.

00:47:06But Vera bought the trending hobbits.

00:47:09Rachel already knew.

00:47:10She was ruined.

00:47:11Her hand clenched the bedsheet.

00:47:13The video?

00:47:14I have it.

00:47:16This is the original security footage from the hallway.

00:47:20Audio's clear.

00:47:21I also have the footage from inside the room.

00:47:26Want to see?

00:47:27He turned the screen toward her.

00:47:29Good thing my people got there first.

00:47:32Otherwise, Ethan would have destroyed every copy.

00:47:35Does he know we have it?

00:47:37Of course not.

00:47:39My people aren't amateurs.

00:47:44Don't thank me.

00:47:45It's a transaction.

00:47:49I help you get evidence.

00:47:51You help me take down Ethan.

00:47:54Fair trade.

00:47:55Don't worry.

00:47:56I'll hold up my end.

00:47:57No rush.

00:47:59Focus on recovering.

00:48:01Ethan should come discuss divorce soon.

00:48:03I imagine I shouldn't be visible in Ethan's orbit right now.

00:48:06He picked up Rachel's phone and programmed in his number.

00:48:10But if anything comes up, call me anytime.

00:48:14Henry had barely left when Ethan appeared in Rachel's room.

00:48:17He stood by her bed, hesitating.

00:48:20How's your grandmother?

00:48:21Rachel asked first.

00:48:22Ethan paused, apparently not expecting that.

00:48:25She hasn't woken up.

00:48:26Rachel laughed coldly.

00:48:28Seeing her like this, feeling any regret?

00:48:31You know, Vera could have brought someone upstairs to catch you cheating and kept it from your grandmother.

00:48:35She didn't.

00:48:36She broadcasted on the big screen, making sure Grandma saw everything.

00:48:41Seeing it with your own eyes hits differently from hearing about it.

00:48:44Was her goal to destroy me or to kill your grandmother?

00:48:50You run a company that size, Mr. King.

00:48:53You should be able to figure that out.

00:48:55Rachel didn't believe Ethan hadn't thought of this.

00:48:58Because wanting your own grandmother dead?

00:49:00That reputation was lower than dirt.

00:49:03Rachel, don't try to drive a wedge.

00:49:06I know my grandmother's condition.

00:49:08Then you're a real piece of work, Mr. King.

00:49:11If you don't care about her life, it's not my place to.

00:49:13Did you bring the divorce papers?

00:49:19He produced a doctorate.

00:49:23This is the divorce agreement.

00:49:24The land, plus a hundred million in compensation.

00:49:27After this, we owe each other nothing.

00:49:29As she flipped through, she spoke.

00:49:31Ethan, even with PEP medication, there's no guarantee against infection.

00:49:35If I'm infected, my life is over.

00:49:39I can understand that you'd sacrifice me to be together.

00:49:42Because to you, I'm nobody.

00:49:46But even if you wanted to destroy my reputation.

00:49:50Even if you wanted to walk over my corpse to your happiness.

00:49:54Couldn't you at least have found a clean man?

00:49:57Why did it have to be someone who's sick?

00:50:00Ethan's fist tightened.

00:50:01That was the weight on his conscience, too.

00:50:03But he pushed through.

00:50:05What's done is done.

00:50:06I'll mobilize every medical resource available.

00:50:09I'll make sure you're healthy.

00:50:11Rachel looked at him, allowing a rare crack of vulnerability.

00:50:14Ethan, for three years, I fended off women for you.

00:50:18I charmed your grandmother.

00:50:20I supported your pursuit of true love.

00:50:22I did everything right by you.

00:50:25All I wanted was to walk away with my body and my dignity intact.

00:50:30Go home.

00:50:31Find someone decent.

00:50:33Live a quiet life.

00:50:34You destroyed all of that.

00:50:35You're probably thinking, so what?

00:50:37She slept with someone.

00:50:38The payout was enormous.

00:50:39What's she complaining about?

00:50:43Right.

00:50:44Just hand it over to someone with HIV.

00:50:47But you thoughtfully arranged P.E. medication.

00:50:50And gave me lots of money.

00:50:52I can take the cash and live as someone everyone flatters to my face while spitting on me behind my

00:50:57back.

00:50:58If you'd like, I can relocate your entire family abroad.

00:51:02I'll cover all expenses.

00:51:07Mr. King, you've thought of everything.

00:51:09I almost feel like I shouldn't be angry.

00:51:11Like I should be grateful.

00:51:13Thank you, Mr. King, for the money and the consideration.

00:51:17Ethan, in your eyes, am I really the kind of person who'd do anything?

00:51:21Endure anything?

00:51:22For money?

00:51:23I've arranged the best possible outcome for you.

00:51:28What more do you want?

00:51:30I don't want more.

00:51:32Your words aren't worth much anymore.

00:51:34Since you're compensating me, don't be cheap.

00:51:36I want 10% of King Group's shares.

00:51:38Long-term income is the only thing that'll give me peace of mind.

00:51:41With 10% combined with Henry's holdings, if King Group's stock wobbled further, Henry could make his move on Ethan.

00:51:47Ethan's head snapped up.

00:51:49The guilt evaporated.

00:51:50What did you say?

00:51:5210% of King Group shares.

00:51:55Call it a salve for your conscience.

00:51:57She knew Ethan would hesitate, but she bet he'd agree, because in three years, she'd learned something about him.

00:52:03He wasn't fundamentally a bad person.

00:52:05In fact, he was one of the few in their circle who still had a conscience.

00:52:09He had principles, a bottom line, but for Vera, he'd broken through that line again and again, and it was

00:52:14eating at him.

00:52:15She was betting on his guilt.

00:52:17Betting that peace of mind was worth 10%, Ethan was indeed struggling.

00:52:2110% of King Group.

00:52:22He hadn't expected Rachel to aim that high, but if he refused, he'd carry this guilt for the rest of

00:52:27his life.

00:52:28I'm sorry.

00:52:29I can't give shares.

00:52:31But I can increase the cash compensation.

00:52:35This would be enough for several lifetimes.

00:52:37Before he could finish, the door burst open.

00:52:39Vera stormed in, eyes red and swollen.

00:52:42Ethan, do you love Rachel now?

00:52:44Why did you pull the trending poppics?

00:52:46Ethan frowned.

00:52:48Vera, Rachel didn't do anything wrong.

00:52:50She's suffering because of us.

00:52:53We can't just...

00:52:54You do care about her!

00:52:56You said the three years with her were all an act.

00:53:00Was that a lie?

00:53:01You've fallen for her, haven't you?

00:53:03Ethan felt a wave of exhaustion.

00:53:05He'd done so many unconscionable things for Vera.

00:53:08Why couldn't she trust him?

00:53:09I haven't.

00:53:10Vera, stop being unreasonable.

00:53:12Vera stared at him, betrayed.

00:53:14You yelled at me.

00:53:16You swore you'd only ever love me.

00:53:18Vera, I love only you.

00:53:20What I feel for Rachel is guilt.

00:53:23She hasn't done anything wrong.

00:53:25How has she not done anything wrong?

00:53:27Three years!

00:53:29She enjoyed your devotion for three years!

00:53:34Real or fake, that makes it her fault!

00:53:37It was all for Grandma!

00:53:38Then prove it.

00:53:40Prove you don't care about her.

00:53:42Haven't I done enough?

00:53:44One more thing.

00:53:46Destroy her reputation completely.

00:53:50Do that, and I'll believe you.

00:53:52Ethan looked at Vera's manic eyes, then at Rachel's calm fate.

00:53:55He suddenly felt he might never have truly known either woman.

00:53:58Same offer as before.

00:53:59Her or me.

00:54:01Today.

00:54:02Choose.

00:54:04Choose her.

00:54:05I walk.

00:54:07Forever.

00:54:09Choose me.

00:54:10Burn her to the ground.

00:54:11Ethan closed his eyes.

00:54:13Three years ago, he'd faced a similar choice.

00:54:16Grandma or Vera?

00:54:17He'd chosen Grandma.

00:54:18Lost Vera.

00:54:19Now the same choice again.

00:54:20Could he afford to be wrong twice?

00:54:22Fine.

00:54:24I'll do it.

00:54:25He picked up his phone, called his assistant.

00:54:27Let the trending topics run.

00:54:30I'll agree to your terms.

00:54:32In exchange, you release a statement admitting to the affair.

00:54:34I'll fault yours.

00:54:35Rachel laughed, a bleak, broken sound.

00:54:37You drugged me, said a sick man to violate me, and now you want me to confess to cheating?

00:54:44To take all the blame?

00:54:46Ethan?

00:54:48Vera?

00:54:49You've outdone yourselves.

00:54:50So what if we did?

00:54:52You sold your marriage for money.

00:54:54Being the stepping stone for ours is an honor.

00:54:57Sign the agreement, or I'll have Ethan throw you out with nothing.

00:55:00So what if I ran you down?

00:55:01So what if I drugged you?

00:55:02So what if I sick man on you?

00:55:03What can you do about it?

00:55:05Can you fight the Green family?

00:55:07Can you fight the King family?

00:55:09Don't count on Grandma to save you.

00:55:11You cheated on her grandson.

00:55:13Despises you.

00:55:14Don't push your luck.

00:55:15Or I promise you, Ethan, Ethan, I can make your life worse.

00:55:18Rachel's entire body trembled.

00:55:20She looked at Ethan.

00:55:21You think the same?

00:55:22His expression was strained.

00:55:24Something barely leashed behind his eyes.

00:55:26Rachel, I'm advising you not to push.

00:55:27I've given you plenty.

00:55:29Don't be greedy.

00:55:30Rachel smiled.

00:55:31She liked their cruelty.

00:55:32It made what came next feel as like revenge and more like justice.

00:55:35She nodded.

00:55:36Fine.

00:55:38I'll sign everything and post the statement immediately.

00:55:41Vera, satisfied, looped her arm through Ethan's.

00:55:44Ethan, let's go.

00:55:45Starting today, we can finally be together.

00:55:48Openly.

00:55:48Ethan let himself be pulled away.

00:55:50At the door, he glanced back at Rachel.

00:55:52She sat on the hospital bed, pale but straight back.

00:55:55Her eyes were ice.

00:55:56Something in his chest twinged.

00:55:58Three years.

00:55:59He thought they could be friends for life.

00:56:00It seemed not.

00:56:02And Rachel, watching them go, smiled.

00:56:04From the moment Ethan walked in, she'd been performing.

00:56:06Performing magnanimity.

00:56:08Performing vulnerability.

00:56:09But she'd gotten what she needed.

00:56:11If Ethan had just taken me to the hospital.

00:56:13Even if he just found a clean man.

00:56:16If he'd done that much, I wouldn't hate him this much.

00:56:20But you chose this.

00:56:23Don't blame me for what comes next.

00:56:25After Ethan and Vera left satisfied, the room finally fell silent.

00:56:29Rachel watched the door for a long moment, then slowly pulled her phone from under the pillow.

00:56:34The screen showed a recording app.

00:56:36The file had just finished saving.

00:56:38She hit play.

00:56:39Vera's shrill, triumphant voice filled the room.

00:56:42So what if we did?

00:56:43You sold your marriage for money.

00:56:46Being the stepping stone for hours is an honor.

00:56:50Rachel smiled.

00:56:51Who said she had to keep being Ethan's puppet?

00:56:54Once she had the land, she'd make sure justice found them both.

00:56:57She pressed save.

00:56:58Henry walked in.

00:57:00All settled?

00:57:01Ten percent equity.

00:57:02He agreed.

00:57:03Condition?

00:57:04I admit to the affair.

00:57:06Total reputation destruction.

00:57:08You agreed?

00:57:10I agreed.

00:57:12Rachel held up her phone.

00:57:14But I don't think they can handle what comes next.

00:57:16She tapped play.

00:57:17Her own voice.

00:57:18You drugged me.

00:57:20Said a sick man to violate me.

00:57:23And now you want me to confess to cheating.

00:57:26So what if we did?

00:57:30Nicely done.

00:57:31He turned a USB drive between his fingers.

00:57:34Combined with what I have, that's enough to put them away.

00:57:36And destroy them publicly.

00:57:39Not yet.

00:57:41Not until the land is legally mine.

00:57:43Henry looked at her with something like admiration.

00:57:46Once they're bankrupt, the land comes to you anyway.

00:57:49Rachel just smiled.

00:57:50She didn't put her faith in men.

00:57:51Especially not one using her to topple King Group.

00:57:54Henry didn't press.

00:57:55What else do you need?

00:57:56A good lawyer.

00:57:58Done.

00:57:59As good as anything King Group has.

00:58:01Once I have the King Group shares, I'll transfer them to you.

00:58:04After that, King Group's problems aren't mine.

00:58:06Then, trust me, the price will be right.

00:58:11The next day...

00:58:12Sign these, and we're done.

00:58:14Rachel handed the documents to her lawyer.

00:58:16Ethan glanced at the lawyer, but said nothing.

00:58:18The lawyer nodded.

00:58:20Rachel signed without hesitation.

00:58:22Without waiting for Ethan's instruction, she'd already posted the pre-written statement.

00:58:26Admitting to the affair.

00:58:28Admitting she'd betrayed Ethan.

00:58:30Admitting she was unworthy of the King name.

00:58:32That she was, in every sense, a disgraced woman.

00:58:37The internet exploded.

00:58:38Knew this woman was trash.

00:58:40Confirmed.

00:58:42Rachel, get out of high society.

00:58:44You're dragging down the entire social class.

00:58:47Am I the only one wondering who the other man is?

00:58:50Mrs. King risked everything.

00:58:52He must be something.

00:58:53Ha ha ha.

00:58:54I know.

00:58:55It was some random guy with HIV.

00:58:57Tells you how filthy she is.

00:58:59Wait, does that mean she's infected?

00:59:01Oh God, has Mr. King been exposed too?

00:59:03Poor Mr. King.

00:59:05Go get tested.

00:59:07Ethan watched the comments flood in.

00:59:08Vicious, unanimous, relentless.

00:59:11His fingers pressed the screen so hard they went white.

00:59:14These words were exactly what he and Vera had wanted.

00:59:17So why did his chest feel like it was stuffed with waterlogged cotton?

00:59:21Heavy, suffocating, with a strange, directionless irritation clawing underneath.

00:59:26He killed the screen.

00:59:28Refused to look.

00:59:29He glanced up at Rachel's impassive face.

00:59:32Remembered three years of easy friendship.

00:59:35Felt a tightness in his ribs.

00:59:36He needed to leave.

00:59:38Now.

00:59:39Then this is goodbye.

00:59:40Let's never each other again.

00:59:42He grabbed his copy of the agreement and left.

00:59:45Almost hastily.

00:59:46Rachel sat motionless, watching his retreating back disappear through the doorway.

00:59:50She knew he left so quickly not out of relief, but out of guilt.

00:59:54Out of inability to face her.

00:59:56He'd used money.

00:59:58Used public violence.

00:59:59He thought never seeing each other again would let him forget.

01:00:03Pretend it never happened.

01:00:05Too bad for him.

01:00:06She was about to disappoint him.

01:00:08The day Rachel received her divorce certificate, she didn't hesitate for a second.

01:00:12She turned around and filed a lawsuit, defendants Ethan King and Vera Green.

01:00:17Charges, intentional injury, defamation, violation of personal dignity.

01:00:21The evidence list ran for pages.

01:00:23Almost simultaneously, a high resolution video was anonymously posted to the internet's largest gossip forums and social media platforms.

01:00:32A woman like that, you think she's still going to be Mrs. King?

01:00:38Ethan, for our future, let's be ruthless just this once.

01:00:41It's just sleeping with someone.

01:00:43For that kind of money, she's not losing.

01:00:44Today, you choose.

01:00:46Her or me.

01:00:48Rachel, this one, I owe you.

01:00:51Rachel also uploaded the audio recorded in the hospital room, nailing down every charge.

01:00:56Public opinion reversed completely.

01:00:59I'm shaking listening to this.

01:01:01This isn't a relationship dispute.

01:01:03This is a crime.

01:01:04Attempted murder.

01:01:05What did Rachel do wrong?

01:01:06She saved an old woman's life.

01:01:08She trusted a scumbag's contract.

01:01:10This is terrifying when you think about it.

01:01:13Today, they can do this to someone who saved their family.

01:01:15Tomorrow, they can do it to any of us.

01:01:18They've got money.

01:01:19They can make it disappear.

01:01:21Look at this.

01:01:22This is how the rich think.

01:01:23Our lives, our dignity, are just price tags to them.

01:01:27Enough money, and you can buy the right to crush someone.

01:01:30Cover up attempted murder.

01:01:32Support Rachel all the way.

01:01:33This isn't private.

01:01:34It's a public matter.

01:01:36Let everyone see that wealth and power are not a license to trample on law and conscience.

01:01:41Boycott all King Group products.

01:01:43Regulatory authorities must investigate.

01:01:46King Group's reputation hit rock bottom.

01:01:49The stock price plummeted on open and kept free-falling.

01:01:52Panic selling flooded the market.

01:01:54Over the following weeks, Ethan stabilized the company while investigating what had happened.

01:01:59He finally learned that Rachel had not been assaulted that night.

01:02:02Henry had saved her, thinking about Rachel's subsequent counterattack.

01:02:06He wasn't angry.

01:02:07Deep inside, the wire that had been pulled to its absolute limit suddenly went slack.

01:02:11A vast, unexpected relief, greater even than the sting of being outmaneuvered and betrayed.

01:02:16He was relieved.

01:02:17He wouldn't have to carry the weight of having truly, irreparably destroyed someone's life.

01:02:21What he owed Rachel had in that instant evaporated.

01:02:24He felt balanced again, at peace.

01:02:27He threw everything into propping up King Group's stock price and began preparing his legal defense in earnest.

01:02:32The biggest winner of this upheaval was Black Group.

01:02:35Henry, who had been quietly positioning himself for years, seized the moment.

01:02:40Together with opportunistic, small shareholders who'd long resented Ethan, he snapped up King Group shares at fire sale prices.

01:02:47Within days, Black Group became King Group's second largest shareholder.

01:02:50Henry took his seat on the board.

01:02:52King Group's top floor conference room.

01:02:53A tall figure walked in, unhurried, impeccable, dark suit.

01:02:57Henry, he wore a satisfied smile and took the seat reserved for the second largest shareholder.

01:03:03Sorry I'm late.

01:03:03Please, continue.

01:03:05Ethan watched Henry settle into the King Group boardroom as if he belonged there.

01:03:09However furious he was, he had to swallow it.

01:03:11He hadn't expected that one crisis would hand Black Group the keys, but it was fine.

01:03:15He could stabilize this.

01:03:17Directors, I'm sure you're all aware of the situation the group is facing.

01:03:20First, I want to offer my sincere apologies for the public scandal caused by my personal and family matters

01:03:25and the severe impact it's had on the group's reputation and market value.

01:03:29He stood and bowed slightly, set the bar low enough.

01:03:32However, I ask you to trust that King Group has weathered decades of storms.

01:03:36Our foundation is deep.

01:03:38Our core business is stable.

01:03:40The current stock volatility and public pressure are short-term shockwaves.

01:03:44They have not damaged our core competitiveness or quality assets.

01:03:48He gestured for his assistant to start the projector.

01:03:51Pre-selected data appeared.

01:03:53These are the latest operational figures for our core sectors, advanced manufacturing and new energy.

01:03:59Orders are stable.

01:04:00Technical barriers remain intact.

01:04:03This is our cash flow and risk reserve assessment.

01:04:06He used every objective metric available to reassure the room.

01:04:10Regarding Black Group become the second largest shareholder and joining the board.

01:04:14We respect market rules and shareholder choice.

01:04:16I believe Mr. Black's participation will inject fresh energy into the group.

01:04:20Two companies working together.

01:04:22That's formidable strength.

01:04:25Mr. King says all the right things.

01:04:27Respect the market.

01:04:28Welcome cooperation.

01:04:30Strength multiplied.

01:04:31But before we discuss partnership and strength, perhaps we should address a more fundamental pareset.

01:04:37Trust is the cornerstone of any commercial partnership.

01:04:42And it is the core pillar of a publicly traded company's market value.

01:04:46His gaze moved slowly across every director, then settled back on Ethan.

01:04:50With respect, Mr. King, you personally have become the group's greatest source of instability.

01:04:55You are the epicenter of this ongoing crisis.

01:05:00The public needs a target for its rage.

01:05:02As long as you remain in the CEO's chair.

01:05:05The public's negative association with King Group will not end.

01:05:09Partners will continue to hesitate.

01:05:11Every stock rebound will be rumor away from collapse.

01:05:15So our money just evaporates.

01:05:17Personally, I believe that for the survival of the group and the interests of all shareholders,

01:05:22Mr. King should consider stepping down.

01:05:25Resign a CEO.

01:05:26Let someone whose public image is more neutral.

01:05:31Someone unconnected to this crisis take the helm.

01:05:36That's the fastest path to stabilization.

01:05:38Mr. Black's proposal is certainly the quickest.

01:05:41But if Mr. King steps down, who leads King Group forward?

01:05:44It's obvious, isn't it?

01:05:46Mr. Black could do it.

01:05:47Henry exchanged a glance with one of the men.

01:05:49I agree with Mr. Black.

01:05:50Mr. King, extraordinary times call for extraordinary measures.

01:05:55Please step aside.

01:05:56Don't let our investment go up in smoke.

01:05:58Mr. King, for everyone's sake, take one for the team.

01:06:01Mr. King, who knows what'll happen with your lawsuit?

01:06:04Don't gamble with King Group.

01:06:06If Mr. King can't be accountable to us, we'll have to withdraw our capital.

01:06:09The next morning at 9 o'clock sharp, King Group's official website and all social media accounts posted a brief

01:06:15announcement simultaneously.

01:06:16No press buildup.

01:06:18No lengthy explanation.

01:06:19Just two cold lines beneath the corporate logo.

01:06:22Announcement regarding leadership change.

01:06:24Effective immediately, Mr. Ethan King has resigned as chief executive officer of King Group for personal reasons.

01:06:30The board of directors has appointed Mr. Henry Black as the new chief executive officer, with full responsibility for the

01:06:36group's operations.

01:06:37The business world was stunned.

01:06:39Private messages flooded with exclamation marks and question marks.

01:06:42Henry and Ethan have been at each other's throats for years.

01:06:45Is King Group about to become Black Group?

01:06:48Ethan didn't even put up a fight?

01:06:49Why would trash fight?

01:06:51Black Group really hit the jab pot.

01:06:53Serves him right.

01:06:55A scumbag like that doesn't deserve to be a CEO.

01:06:58Let him see what it feels like to be stompled on.

01:07:02Outside King Group headquarters, Ethan carried a box of his personal belongings.

01:07:06He hadn't expected Henry to win over so many directors to force him out just like that.

01:07:11He looked at Henry's smug face.

01:07:12Thanks for your service to King Group.

01:07:14I could use a break anyway.

01:07:16Oh, you'll get your rest.

01:07:18Accessory to a crime should be worth a few years.

01:07:20By the time you're out, King Group might have a new name.

01:07:22Oh, right.

01:07:23The trial starts tomorrow.

01:07:24The company's legal team is busy with their own work, but don't worry.

01:07:28As CEO, I won't leave you hanging.

01:07:30I'll have the firm's lawyers represent you.

01:07:32After all, you share a last name.

01:07:33Ethan hadn't expected Henry to go this far, pulling his own legal team.

01:07:37He'd already worked out a strategy with his lawyers.

01:07:39A workable plan.

01:07:41Replacement counsel was ready to step in.

01:07:43But Henry pulling the team now meant every minute of preparation was wasted.

01:07:47And since Ethan was no longer CEO, he couldn't authorize the team's deployment without Henry's approval.

01:07:52Henry, do you have to fight me on everything?

01:07:55Winners and losers.

01:07:56Why be upset?

01:07:58Good luck in court tomorrow.

01:07:59He turned and walked away.

01:08:00Ethan immediately called Vera.

01:08:02They met at his villa.

01:08:04Why is Henry helping Rachel?

01:08:06What's their relationship?

01:08:08Henry's always wanted King Group.

01:08:10He just found his opening.

01:08:11Vera, we need a new plan.

01:08:12What kind of plan?

01:08:14King Group's legal team was top tier.

01:08:16They'd already devised a strategy that would get them both off.

01:08:19Now that the team was gone, the evidence could put her away.

01:08:22She couldn't go to prison.

01:08:23Ethan had to cover for her.

01:08:25Ethan, I can't go to prison.

01:08:26I'm finished if I do.

01:08:27If things go badly, you take all the blame.

01:08:30One of us has to survive.

01:08:31He stared at Vera.

01:08:33The woman he'd moved mountains for sacrificed every principle to protect.

01:08:37She said it as if it were self-evident.

01:08:39As if his going to prison for her was the natural order of things.

01:08:43Vera, you...

01:08:44You want me to take everything?

01:08:47Yes!

01:08:48Vera grabbed his arm, urgent.

01:08:50Ethan, think.

01:08:51You're a king.

01:08:52Even if you go in, the King family will find a way.

01:08:55They won't let you rot.

01:08:57You might not be CEO anymore, but the King family connections are still there.

01:09:01But I'm different.

01:09:03I'm a green, but you know my father.

01:09:04He cares about the family name above all else.

01:09:07If I get a criminal record, the greens won't lift a finger.

01:09:09They'll cut me loose.

01:09:10My life will be over.

01:09:12Ethan, you said you loved me.

01:09:14You said you'd never let me suffer.

01:09:15Can you really watch me go to prison?

01:09:18Ethan, we said we'd be together forever.

01:09:21I'll be out here waiting for you.

01:09:23Ethan's mind was chaos.

01:09:25Reason told him to refuse.

01:09:26Emotion whispered, you love Vera.

01:09:28You can't let her be hurt.

01:09:30Ethan, you don't want to?

01:09:32Fine, I won't force you.

01:09:34I'll go to prison.

01:09:35I'll confess.

01:09:36I brought this on myself.

01:09:37I loved you too much.

01:09:38I was jealous of Rachel.

01:09:39I did all those things.

01:09:40I deserve it.

01:09:41I'll turn myself in right now.

01:09:43Vera, no.

01:09:44I'll do it.

01:09:45But it might not come to that.

01:09:46I can go to Rachel.

01:09:47Talk to her.

01:09:49Yes.

01:09:49And if Rachel won't listen, we go to her parents.

01:09:51We can put pressure on them.

01:09:53Ethan, hurry.

01:09:54Send someone now.

01:09:56Fine.

01:09:57We'll find Rachel first.

01:09:59Ethan quickly tracked Rachel to her hotel.

01:10:01He and Vera showed up at her door.

01:10:03When Rachel opened it and saw them, it was too late to close it.

01:10:06They forced their way in.

01:10:07Rachel, we came to talk.

01:10:09You took the shares.

01:10:10You promised we were even.

01:10:12Can I change my mind?

01:10:14You-

01:10:14Me what?

01:10:15You promised me protection when you proposed the contract marriage.

01:10:18Said I wouldn't get hurt.

01:10:20You didn't keep that promise, did you?

01:10:22I'm just learning from the best.

01:10:23Rachel, don't get cocky.

01:10:25We're here to give you a chance.

01:10:27Drop the lawsuit.

01:10:28Admit you fabricated the evidence that you're framing us.

01:10:31We'll let it go.

01:10:32Vera, what are you going to do?

01:10:33Kill me?

01:10:34Go ahead.

01:10:35Think I'm scared?

01:10:37Don't be stupid.

01:10:38You think Henry's backing and some evidence can bring us down?

01:10:41I'm telling you, business is about interests.

01:10:45We offer Henry a sweetener.

01:10:46He drops you like a hot coal.

01:10:48Then why are you here talking to me?

01:10:51You might not care about your own life, but your parents back in the country, they're not

01:10:55young and anymore, are they?

01:10:57I hear their health isn't great.

01:11:00Vera!

01:11:02Tell me what it'll take to end this.

01:11:03I used to think you were just spoiled, selfish, overindulged.

01:11:08Now I see it clearly.

01:11:10You're rotten to the core.

01:11:11You'll do anything to get what you want.

01:11:13You treat people like weeds to be pulled.

01:11:16You don't even have a baseline of human decency.

01:11:19No wonder you could run someone down with a car, drug them, set a sick man on them.

01:11:23Shut up!

01:11:24Who are you to judge me?

01:11:25Ethan caught her arm.

01:11:27Vera, what are you doing?

01:11:29Vicar, can you be quiet for one second?

01:11:31We're here to negotiate.

01:11:32Do you have to make everything worse?

01:11:34Ethan, I genuinely admire you.

01:11:36This is what you're into?

01:11:37A woman who's malicious, tyrannical, runs people over with cars, drugs them, sets sick

01:11:42men on them?

01:11:43Your taste is distinctive.

01:11:45Rachel!

01:11:46Ethan went pale as if he'd been publicly stripped naked.

01:11:49He wanted to argue.

01:11:50To say he wasn't that person.

01:11:52Stop trying to drive a wedge!

01:11:54What's between Ethan and me is none of your business.

01:11:57Ethan loves me.

01:11:58Loves everything about me.

01:12:00I've been like this since I was a kid.

01:12:02What I want, I take.

01:12:03Who I don't like, I destroy.

01:12:06Ethan knows.

01:12:07He's always known.

01:12:08In high school, some girl sent Ethan a love letter.

01:12:11I had people hold her head in a toilet.

01:12:13In college, a senior competed with me for student council president.

01:12:16I spread rumors that she was sleeping around.

01:12:18She dropped out of the race.

01:12:19Ethan knew about all of it.

01:12:21He cleaned up every mess.

01:12:23When I came back and saw you with Ethan, it made me sick.

01:12:27So I splashed wine in your face.

01:12:29So what?

01:12:30Slapped you over.

01:12:31So what?

01:12:32Ran you over.

01:12:33So what?

01:12:34You're in my way.

01:12:36Ethan felt sorry for me.

01:12:38Understood me.

01:12:39So he made you apologize.

01:12:41Hit you for me.

01:12:42Destroyed the security footage for me.

01:12:45He knows who I am.

01:12:47He can't help loving me.

01:12:48As long as I'm happy, he'll do anything.

01:12:51Ethan listened to Vera's near-psychotic confession, his body turning to stone, one increment at

01:12:57a time.

01:12:58Those little things he'd tried to forget were now being laid out, bluntly with pride,

01:13:02like an ugly mirror reflecting his own blindness and complicity.

01:13:05He'd known about Vera's cruelty, her pettiness, her vindictiveness, but he'd always made excuses.

01:13:11She's just spoiled.

01:13:13She just loves me too much.

01:13:14It's nothing serious.

01:13:16He could handle it.

01:13:17Enough, Vera.

01:13:18Stop!

01:13:19He felt a wave of nausea, not just toward Vera, but toward himself.

01:13:24Even brought low, I'm not someone you can afford to provoke.

01:13:27Be smart.

01:13:28Don't do anything stupid.

01:13:30You know, I still have a moral line, but if you erase that line...

01:13:34Erase it?

01:13:35Then what?

01:13:36The door opened.

01:13:37Henry walked in, composed.

01:13:38Showing up to threat your ex-wife in the middle of the night.

01:13:41Impressive.

01:13:42We've been at this a while.

01:13:44Rachel is under my protection now.

01:13:46Bring it.

01:13:46I'm ready.

01:13:46Henry, this used to be a business dispute.

01:13:50But you've made it personal.

01:13:52Bring it.

01:13:53Then let's see.

01:13:54Ethan threw out the threat and left with Vera.

01:13:56The room was quiet, just Rachel and Henry.

01:13:59Henry didn't respond immediately.

01:14:01He walked to the table, casually picked up a clean white porcelain cup, and poured himself

01:14:05half a cup of tea that had gone cold.

01:14:08Actually, I should be thanking you.

01:14:10Thank you?

01:14:10In this arrangement, she was Henry's collaborator.

01:14:13But the real power had always been his.

01:14:15He had the resources, the connections, the muscle.

01:14:18What did she have that was worth his thanks?

01:14:21He set the cup down with a soft clink.

01:14:23His gaze seemed to look through her into a distant, dust-covered past.

01:14:27Let me tell you a story.

01:14:28About seven or eight years ago, in college, I knew a girl, not from our world, ordinary

01:14:35family, but smart, driven, like a sunflower in a wild field, always turned towards the

01:14:41light.

01:14:42She had ideas, leadership.

01:14:44She wanted to run for student council president, and she was in someone's way.

01:14:48Or rather, she offended someone.

01:14:50That person was Vera.

01:14:51Vera, she wanted the position to, or maybe what she really wanted, being of the center

01:14:56of everything, controlling everyone.

01:14:58This girl's presence felt like a challenge.

01:15:00So Vera used the most degraded, destructive method.

01:15:04She had someone assault the girl.

01:15:07Then she took photos and spread them across campus and online.

01:15:10Her fingers curled into fists.

01:15:12She thought of Vera's casual words.

01:15:14I spread rumors that she was sleeping around.

01:15:16She dropped out of the race, she'd suspected.

01:15:18But hearing the specific, brutal reality still hit like a punch to the stomach.

01:15:23The girl didn't survive it.

01:15:25She jumped from the top of this building.

01:15:27One life, gone.

01:15:29Rachel could almost see her.

01:15:30A girl she'd never met.

01:15:31A sunflower wilting in despair and humiliation.

01:15:35It was handled.

01:15:37Properly resolved.

01:15:39Ethan stepped in.

01:15:40Suppressed most of the coverage.

01:15:42He was already Vera's most faithful guardian.

01:15:45He paid the girl's family a massive sump.

01:15:48Enough to silence a pair of grieving parents who'd lost their only daughter.

01:15:52Enough to make them accept accident or mental health issues.

01:15:55The truth buried under money and power.

01:15:58Vera faced no real consequences.

01:16:00Transferred schools.

01:16:01Lay low.

01:16:03Then re-emerged.

01:16:04Shiny and untouchable.

01:16:06And I was powerless.

01:16:07The girl, what was her name?

01:16:08Sunny, as in sunshine.

01:16:11You loved her?

01:16:11Henry didn't answer.

01:16:12He didn't need to.

01:16:14I understand.

01:16:15Our goals are the same.

01:16:16Not just making Ethan and Vera pay for what they'd done to her, but dragging the truth

01:16:20into the light, exposing what money and power had buried, making sure Sunny's death

01:16:25and the silence of every possible Sunny who came after was finally reckoned with.

01:16:30After hearing about Sunny, a chill settled into Rachel's bones.

01:16:34Her understanding of Vera's malice deepened another degree.

01:16:37This wasn't jealousy or rivalry.

01:16:39It was something bred into the bone.

01:16:41A casual, reflexive contempt for other people's lives.

01:16:45A need to destroy.

01:16:46If Vera could drive a girl to suicide over a student council election, what she'd done

01:16:51to Rachel, to reclaim Ethan and her status, was entirely in character.

01:16:56Rachel stopped refusing Henry's help.

01:16:58She moved into a villa he'd arranged.

01:17:00She couldn't die.

01:17:01She had to live long enough to watch them face justice.

01:17:04For Sunny.

01:17:05For herself.

01:17:06Vera did send people to handle Rachel at the hotel.

01:17:10They found an empty room.

01:17:11When Henry relayed this, Rachel broke into a cold sweat.

01:17:15Good.

01:17:15Thank God.

01:17:16The courtroom was solemn.

01:17:18When the prosecutor finished laying out the charges, Vera's drugging at the birthday

01:17:22banquet, her arrangement of an HIV-positive man to assault Rachel and presented the evidence,

01:17:27it was time for the defendants to speak.

01:17:29Vera was ashen, fingers twisted together, lips trembling.

01:17:32She looked at her defense attorney, pleading.

01:17:35Your honor.

01:17:37Regarding all charges against Miss Vera Green, I planned, orchestrated, and executed everything.

01:17:43Vera had no knowledge.

01:17:44Or rather, she only knew what I wanted her to believe.

01:17:47The courtroom erupted.

01:17:49Even Vera's head snapped up, shocked.

01:17:51She hadn't expected this.

01:17:52Ethan's lawyer was stunned.

01:17:54This completely deviated from their strategy, shifting primary blame to Vera to secure Ethan

01:17:59a lighter sentence.

01:18:00Mr. King, do you understand what you're saying?

01:18:04Order.

01:18:06Defendant Ethan King, state your reasoning and understand that you are accountable for

01:18:10your words.

01:18:10I stand behind every words.

01:18:12The drugging at the banquet, bringing in that man.

01:18:15It was my idea.

01:18:16I wanted to destroy Rachel's reputation so I could marry Vera.

01:18:19Vera was only worried about me.

01:18:20She didn't want me to take the fall.

01:18:21That's why she said what she said.

01:18:23This had nothing to do with her.

01:18:25I did it all.

01:18:26I plead guilty.

01:18:28Objection!

01:18:30The prosecution's evidence chain clearly demonstrates that Miss Vera Green was the initiator and

01:18:35direct executor in multiple incidents.

01:18:38Defendant Ethan King's testimony contracts the objective evidence.

01:18:41He is deliberately shielding her.

01:18:43The courtroom battle was fierce, but Ethan insisted on his guilt.

01:18:47Vera fought desperately to clear herself.

01:18:49Ethan was sentenced to 12 years.

01:18:51Vera received less than six months.

01:18:54Grandma King woke at precisely that moment.

01:18:57When she learned her grandson had been imprisoned because of Vera, she couldn't catch her breath.

01:19:01She collapsed again.

01:19:02This time, she didn't wake up.

01:19:04When Ethan received the news of his grandmother's death, he finally wept.

01:19:07If he hadn't used Vera's extreme methods, if he hadn't provoked Rachel, grandma would

01:19:11still be.

01:19:12He slammed his head against the wall over and over until blood ran.

01:19:16He was eventually transferred to medical parole.

01:19:19Six months later, Vera was released.

01:19:22The Green family arranged a hasty marriage for her.

01:19:25Twelve years for six months.

01:19:27Devotion as deep as the ocean.

01:19:30Exchanged for a frantic severing of ties.

01:19:32His own grandmother, dead from the shock.

01:19:35Ethan went mad.

01:19:36He regretted again.

01:19:38Regretted loving this woman.

01:19:39He'd given her everything he could.

01:19:41Even helped kill his grandmother.

01:19:43She'd walked out and cut him off without a second thought.

01:19:46What was he then?

01:19:47Vera's dog following her to the end.

01:19:50Vera's marriage was no fairy tale.

01:19:53Henry would never let it be.

01:19:54A woman like her deserved to suffer.

01:19:57To live in torment.

01:19:58The man she'd been married to had peculiar tastes and treated her as less than human.

01:20:04When Vera was beaten badly enough,

01:20:06When Ethan gets out, he won't let you get away with this!

01:20:09The response was always another round of blows.

01:20:13Twelve years passed.

01:20:14King Group had long since been absorbed by Black Group.

01:20:17Ethan was released.

01:20:19Vera appeared before him.

01:20:20Ethan, you love me most, don't you?

01:20:23Save me!

01:20:24That man beats me!

01:20:25Help me get back at him!

01:20:27Ethan looked at her coldly.

01:20:28Turned.

01:20:29Walked away.

01:20:30He'd paid for his mistakes.

01:20:32Every one of them.

01:20:32For the rest of his life.

01:20:34He wanted nothing to do with Vera Green.

01:20:36Vera tried to follow.

01:20:38Her husband grabbed her and slapped her to his face.

01:20:41Bitch, you think he's still Mr. King?

01:20:43He's a stray dog now.

01:20:45You want him to hit me?

01:20:46Today, if you don't serve Mr. Wang properly, I'll have you serving homeless men.

01:20:50Ethan didn't look back.

01:20:51He walked straight to Rachel.

01:20:53Rachel, these twelve years.

01:20:55The only thing I've missed was those three years with you.

01:20:58The ease.

01:20:59The comfort.

01:21:01Ethan, you know what?

01:21:03During those three years, I didn't just see you as a friend.

01:21:08Too bad you don't deserve to know that.

01:21:10You don't deserve to be my friend.

01:21:12Rachel turned and walked away.

01:21:14Seeing the two of them reduced to this, she felt something unwind inside her.

01:21:18A grim satisfaction.

01:21:20She hadn't expected to run into Henry.

01:21:23That's their karma.

01:21:24Yep, what goes around comes around.

01:21:26It just took its time.

01:21:27Shall we celebrate?

01:21:28I'll pass.

01:21:28Yes, my husband and son are waiting for me.

01:21:31She turned toward a car at the roadside.

01:21:33A man stood beside it, a child in his arms, waving at her enthusiastically.

01:21:38Ordinary love.

01:21:40Must be nice.

01:21:41Twelve years ago.

01:21:42If you're willing, I could marry you.

01:21:44We're from different worlds.

01:21:46She understood.

01:21:47He wouldn't be marrying her.

01:21:48He'd be marrying her value.

01:21:51The publicity.

01:21:52The exposure.

01:21:53Black group would leverage her story to enormous profit.

01:21:56She didn't need wealth or status.

01:21:58A plain, steady life was enough.

01:22:00She returned to the land she'd fought so hard to protect.

01:22:03The villagers were grateful.

01:22:05They cared for her.

01:22:06She married the boy she'd grown up with.

01:22:08The one she'd carried a torch for since before the contract.

01:22:11Since before the kings and the greens and all of it.

01:22:13And that secret love.

01:22:15The one she'd hidden inside a contract marriage.

01:22:17The one she'd never once spoken aloud.

01:22:19She buried it in the soil of her homeland with her own hands.

01:22:23She never turned that earth again.

01:22:25Twelve years.

01:22:26Just like that.

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